How much width do you have? Are you willing to prune regularly?

Tecomaria capensis/Cape honeysuckle is easy to grow, and it's fast, but you will have to prune to keep it in bounds. Shiny dark green, ferny foliage, orange tubular flowers, attracts hummingbirds, blooms nearly year round.

Here is a link that might be useful: Tecomaria capensis/Cape honeysuckle

If you check the FAQ on the california forum there's a list of recommendations for screening plants. It is a subject that comes up a lot in CA with the small yards we have.

In my yard I've got Prunus caroliniana, Dodonea viscosa, and Eugenia as screening plants. I like the Eugenia the best but it requires a systemic insecticide to keep the psyllids in check, which I am willing to do because I just like the plant so much. The Dodonea could be a little denser. I like the Prunus a lot too but it is not as dense as the Eugenia. 'Skyrocket' junipers are good, if you don't mind junipers. Good old Privit (Ligustrum) if you don't mind good old Privit.

I planted 5 gal Dodonea viscosa 'purpurea' three years ago in Sept. It is now approx. 10 ft tall. I have taken about 6 to 10 inches off the top twice. I have lightly sheared the front twice. If you have more room you may not need to prune at all. I agree with hoovb that it could be a little denser, but overall I am very happy with my choice.

Sorry, I wasn't clear in my first post. I planted 3 shrubs that came 5 gallon size containers.